Full throttle learning for Kandos automotive students

TAFE Western Kandos Certificate II Automotive Vocational Preparation students will have extra reason to cheer at the 2016 Kandos Street Machine and Hot Rod burn-out competition in January next year.

As part of their course, the students have participated in an exciting new project, preparing a Mazda 323 to compete in the burn-out competition - meaning they’ll get to see their very own work in action.

Under the tutelage of teacher Jeremy Reid, the 12 students have made significant changes to the vehicle, building and installing a LS1 V8 Holden engine that will provide plenty of grunt.

Automotive Head Teacher Paul Chaseling said this was a unique project for TAFE Western which had proven a big hit with participants.

“We threw around some different ideas about how we could engage the students on a different level and the results have been really pleasing,” Mr Chaseling said.

“It has been one of the best groups we have ever had. The students have shown a lot of interest in the project and they turn up excited every week.

“The knowledge and understanding the students have gained from this project has blown everyone away.”

Mr Reid said the best thing about the project was it had already generated positive learning outcomes.

“Several of the students are currently involved in building competition vehicles for car shows with their fathers, brothers, mates and other family members, so I saw this as an opportunity to engage with the local community and make the learning relevant,” Mr Reid said.

“It’s great that they’ve been able to connect what they have learnt in the classroom with projects at home.”

“I’ve really loved it,” he said. “When I first started I thought this course would be a lot of theory. We did some theory at the start, but there’s been a lot of practical work which has been really enjoyable.

“I go to the Street Machine and Hot Rod Show every year, but I dare say this year will be really exciting being able to see a car we’ve worked on competing.”

Mr Miller said he’d learnt a lot from the Certificate II Automotive Vocational Preparation class and when he’s finished, hopes to gain full-time work in the automotive industry.

For information about the Certificate II Automotive Vocational Preparation course, and all others courses available at TAFE Western, visit www.tafewestern.edu.au or phone 1300 823 393.